Pages

Friday, January 30, 2009

***CLOSED*** I don't know about you guys but I'm about carnival'd out and I still have so many to enter! But I have to take the time to thank everyone for participating and Tweeting for me. I really appreciate it and I'm sure the sponsors do too. I've got new followers on Twitter and here on the blog and I hope you stick around. You won't regret it. I can be pretty funny sometimes. Moving on. Short and sweet today:

This giveaway is a little self serving. I just agreed to do book reviews at a fairly new site, MahoganyButterfly.com and I want to have an arsenal of books at the ready (see that? sounding literary already!) So, to enter this contest please leave me a suggestion for a really good book. Maybe your favorite of all time or one that made you think, made you cry, or was just so good you read it in a few hours.

My only caveat (again with the literary!) is no Twilight or Sisterhood of the Shopaholics. Not that those books are bad (I don't want to incur the wrath of you Twilighters. You're serious about that Edward guy. Plus, I read plenty of chick lit). I just want books with a little more.... meat to them.

In exchange for providing me with your suggestions I will buy a book for you.* I know there are a lot of fellow readers out there and I'm sure your "to be read" lists are just as long as mine. So to enter:

1. Leave me a comment with your most awesomest book suggestion (required).

2. *The winner will receive a book from me in the form of a $20 gift card to Borders, Barnes and Noble or Amazon for an international winner (some countries don't allow Amazon cards, make sure yours does before entering).

3. For an extra entry (not required), send out a Tweet about this contest and come back to this post with the link to your Tweet. Here's the shortened link to this post: http://tiny.cc/XbqCD(you'll need a Twitter account.)*ETA: If you're the chosen winner and you've sent out a Tweet to help me publicize, I'll throw in a $5 Starbucks card!

4. I MUST have a way to get in touch with you! NoReply@Blogger will not send you a response. I will have to delete comments with no contact info.You can leave your email address in the myemail [at] thisaddress [dot] com format to prevent spam.

5. Comments will close on Friday, January 30th at 11:59pm CA time.

6. I will use random.org to draw the winner and post the results/notify winners via email and in a "Winners" post on Saturday 1/31.

7. Winner will have until Monday, 2/2 to respond or a new winner will be chosen.

8. You don't need a blog to win, but I MUST have a way to contact you. US residents only (sorry!)

Below are my other giveaways which also end tonight. Click the picture or follow the link in my upper right sidebar to enter.

(Coffee photo from here)Be sure to visit the carnival giveaway hub all week for more great contests!

Thursday, January 29, 2009

***CLOSED*** Today's giveaway comes from the Liz of The Cookie Chew. I found Liz almost by accident. I was getting the mail a few weeks ago and sorted through it dropping items into the recycling. I flipped through one of the circulars looking for restaurant coupons and landed on a page with her ad on it. The cookies looked so good I read the ad and was excited to see she's a local. I sent her a message through her site, she called me back and now I get to give away some of her awesome treats to you!

Liz was starting a career in accounting but stepped away from the computer to focus on turning her passion for baking into a career. Liz is offering one winner a half pound bag of Cocktail Cookies and a package of six Truffies! A White Chocolate Russian Cookie or Raspberry Chocolate Martini Cookie? Sign me up! This is the point where you tell me how much you love me. (Kidding. Sorta.)

To enter (two entries possible):1. Go to The Cookie Chew site and look at the cookie menu, the Truffie or Cocktail Cookies flavors (the site has Flash animation, hover over the little pictures in the top left).

2. Come back here and leave a comment on this post and tell me what other item you'd buy - required.

3. For an extra entry (not required), send out a Tweet about this contest and come back to this post with the link to your Tweet. Here's the shortened link to this post: http://tiny.cc/dJEf2(you'll need a Twitter account.)*ETA: If you're the chosen winner and you've sent out a Tweet to help me publicize, I'll throw in a $5 Starbucks card!

4. I MUST have a way to get in touch with you! NoReply@Blogger will not send you a response. I will have to delete comments with no contact info.You can leave your email address in the myemail [at] thisaddress [dot] com format to prevent spam.

5. Comments will close on Friday, January 30th at 11:59pm CA time.

6. I will use random.org to draw the winner and post the results/notify winners via email and in a "Winners" post on Saturday 1/31.

7. Winner will have until Monday, 2/2 to respond or a new winner will be chosen.

8. You don't need a blog to win, but I MUST have a way to contact you. US residents only (sorry!)

*I have links to my other four giveaways in my right sidebar (more jewelry and $20 for books).

Be sure to visit the carnival giveaway hub all week for more great contests!

Wednesday, January 28, 2009

***CLOSED*** My addiction to Twitter gets stronger every day. I'm following (and being followed) by some really great people. I got to meet a follower for the first time on Monday, and I just connected with a woman who lives near me and will be helping me train for the breast cancer walk. I take back everything I said about Twitter being useless and pointless!

The first of today's giveaways comes from one of my followers. I'm not sure what I Tweeted to get Kevin's attention but I'm so glad I did. His Etsy shop, KanYoFuse, is full of beautiful pendants made of glass, which is one of my favorite materials to wear. Kevin has generously offered pendants to THREE winners!

Ooh, ahhh! I love these and hate that they will not be adorning my neck (top to bottom they are named Champagne Hearts on Shimmering Purple, Be Mine Flowers and Lovesick Dragonflies).To enter (two entries possible):1. Go to the KanYoFuse shop to see the other items Kevin offers.

2. Come back here and leave a comment on this post and tell me what other item you'd buy - required. (You can also tell me which of the three you'd like most - optional)

3. For an extra entry (not required), send out a Tweet about this contest and come back to this post with the link to your Tweet. Here's the shortened link to this post: http://tiny.cc/tPM8s(you'll need a Twitter account.)*ETA: If you're the chosen winner and you've sent out a Tweet to help me publicize, I'll throw in a $5 Starbucks card!

4. I MUST have a way to get in touch with you! NoReply@Blogger will not send you a response. I will have to delete comments with no contact info.You can leave your email address in the myemail [at] thisaddress [dot] com format to prevent spam.

5. Comments will close on Friday, January 30th at 11:59pm CA time.

6. I will use random.org to draw the three winners and post the results/notify winners via email and in a "Winners" post on Saturday 1/31.

7. Winners will have until Monday, 2/2 to respond or a new winner will be chosen.

8. You don't need a blog to win, but I MUST have a way to contact you. US residents only (sorry!)

*I have other giveaways: One for a really cute enamel pocket mirror here, a different glass pendant here and gourmet cookies here and $20 for books here.

*Be sure to visit the carnival giveaway hub all week for more great contests!

I'm so sorry everyone! I have to leave for the dentist soon and time got away from me. If I don't eat before I go I'll be miserable. I'll try to get two giveaways up to when I get back to make up for it. Take a sneak peek here and here. Be back later!

I was trying for an On Golden Pond type of look with this photo. The father walked into the shot and I decided to go with it. I love how it turned out. I took a few more of them but this one is the best. While I was reviewing the pictures on the LCD, they ran off down the beach. I was going to offer to email him since I know a moment like this is so precious. Seeing a dad with his child like this always makes me melt. Kids grow so fast.

Tuesday, January 27, 2009

***CLOSED*** My second giveaway is from another Etsy seller. I'm very happy to have the type of positive response from all the Etsy sellers I've worked with in their willingness to partner with me and offer such unique items!

Rachel is the owner of the Legion Creative shop. Rachel's design are very striking and colorful. She has a graphic design background and it definitely shows in her work. Rachel is offering one winner this beautiful daisy pendant which I absolutely love!To enter (two entries possible):1. Go to the Legion Creative shop to see the other items Rachel offers.

2. Come back here and leave a comment on this post and tell me what other item you'd buy - required.

3. For an extra entry (not required), send out a Tweet about this contest and come back to this post with the link to your Tweet. Here's the shortened link to this post: http://tiny.cc/7lklx(you'll need a Twitter account.)*ETA: If you're the chosen winner and you've sent out a Tweet to help me publicize, I'll throw in a $5 Starbucks card!

4. I MUST have a way to get in touch with you! NoReply@Blogger will not send you a response. I will have to delete comments with no contact info.You can leave your email address in the myemail [at] thisaddress [dot] com format to prevent spam.

5. Comments will close on Friday, January 30th at 11:59pm CA time.

6. I will use random.org to draw the winners and post the results/notify winner via email and in a "Winners" post on Saturday 1/31.

7. Winners will have until Monday, 2/2 to respond or a new winner will be chosen.

8. You don't need a blog to win, but I MUST have a way to contact you. US residents only (sorry!)

*I have another giveaway for a really cute enamel pocket mirror here, pendants for three winners here, gourmet cookies here and $20 for books here.

Sunday, January 25, 2009

***CLOSED*** Wee! It's Carnival time! It really does seem like we just had one. To those who are here for the first time, welcome and thank you! I enjoy finding new things to bring to you and hope this round of giveaways lives up to my previous ones. I'll be giving away a different item each day (2 more from Etsy sellers!) so please check back throughout the week.

My first giveaway is from the Etsy shop Little Pink Plum. I found Janet while researching a piece on affordable Valentine's Day gifts. I like the idea of supporting small, local, mom-owned businesses and Little Pink Plum is all three. Janet is offering one winner a Cherry Blossom pocket mirror in an organza bag. So cute!

I like the idea of a small mirror. Sometimes having to use my foundation mirror is pain and I've dropped the applicator and not noticed until later. Plus, this would be great in a small bag for a night out.

To enter (two entries possible):1. Go to the Little Pink Plum shop to see the other items Janet offers.

2. Come back here and leave a comment on this post and tell me what other item you'd buy - required.

3. For an extra entry (not required), send out a Tweet about this contest and come back to this post with the link to your Tweet. Here's shortened link to help: http://tiny.cc/rrX3b(you'll need a Twitter account.)*ETA: If you are the chosen winner and you've also sent out a Tweet to help me publicize, I'll throw in a $5 Starbucks card!

4. I MUST have a way to get in touch with you! NoReply@Blogger will not send you a response. I will have to delete comments with no contact info. You can leave your email address in the myemail [at] thisaddress [dot] com format to prevent spam.

5. Comments will close on Friday, January 30th at 11:59pm CA time.

6. I will use random.org to draw the winners and post the results/notify winner via email and in a "Winners" post on Saturday 1/31.

7. Winners will have until Monday, 2/2 to respond or a new winner will be chosen.

8. You don't need a blog to win, but I MUST have a way to contact you. US residents only (sorry!)

**I have another giveaway for a glass pendant here, three winners will get fused glass pendants here, gourmet cookies are here and $20 for books here.

Saturday, January 24, 2009

Just a quick heads up that I'm participating in the Bloggy Giveaway Carnival that starts Monday. And I hate that I have to give this great stuff away!

I will expect effusive thanks and people prostrating themselves before me when they see what I'm offering. OK, not really. Just be sure to come back all next week to see what I have for you! (Hint: jewelry and cookies!)

Thursday, January 22, 2009

I could sing the praises of Maria Bailey and her team at BSM Media for, oh, about a week. I have learned so much from Maria and really look up to her personally and professionally. I was beyond flattered when she asked me to participate in a research project focusing on the values of moms of different races.

BSM sent out the press release of the findings last week (below and in PDF form here). I really hope companies, advertisers and media pay attention to the findings. This past Tuesday really was (IMHO) the beginning of a new era and a new social consciousness. Newspapers, magazines, radio, television and any other media need to be prepared for the shift in demographics I believe will be coming.

One of my comments to Maria was that, because of our new President and First Lady (squee!), there may be people of different ethnicities and backgrounds participating in media they never would have before. A grandmother who has never read the USA Today may pick it up because Obama is on the cover. A mother may buy an issue of a magazine she's never read before because of an article on the First Lady.

I'm considering subscribing to Time or Newsweek because I really want to be more active and knowledgeable politically than I was before.

I really do believe the demographics are going to change and I hope companies and the media are prepared to make sure they are reaching this new audience.

FT. LAUDERDALE (JANUARY 13, 2009) – When it comes to motherhood, nothing is black and white. As we usher in the inauguration of our first African American President, a new study examines the behaviors and values of mothers across racial lines. The research shows that while all mothers are battling with the growing concerns facing our nation, some of a mother’s coping strategies and motivations are tied to her culture and ethnic background.

The research was conducted by BSM Media, www.bsmmedia.com, a leading marketing to moms firm led by Maria Bailey, author of “Mom 3.0: Marketing With Today’s Mothers by Leveraging New Media and Technology”.

“Moms share universal concerns for their children,” says Maria Bailey, CEO of BSM Media. “It is clear, however, that the way she reacts to the economy, rising food costs and the dreams she has for her children is impacted by her personal experiences, upbringing and ethnic background.”

“Identifying the specific needs of African American Moms is timely,” said Melanie Sheridan from Mel, A Dramatic Mommy, www.meladramaticmommy.com. “Companies and media need to be more culturally aware and prepared for the expanded audiences recent historic events may bring their way.”

Key Findings of the study include:

·Although the majority of all moms have made household adjustments to cope with the economic crisis, African American moms are more likely to delay major purchases (57%) and avoid stores to reduce shopping (54%). Caucasian moms are coping by using coupons and discount codes (73%) and driving fewer places to conserve gas (62%).

“It takes a lot of time and concerted effort to use coupons effectively and save money, and time is something that many African American moms don’t have”, says Jennifer James, editor of Mommy Too! Magazine (www.mommytoomag.com), “In addition, many of the manufacturer coupons found in the newspaper are not found in the retail locations in urban communities and if they are, many African American moms opt to purchase lower cost generic brands which usually don’t issue coupons.”

·African American moms are more likely to turn to clergy for support (60%) than Caucasian moms (41%). Other popular support outlets among both races included spouses, parents and other moms.

·Although moms across racial lines ranked education as their greatest dream for their children, African American moms are more likely to aspire for their children to have a deep religious commitment as adults than Caucasian moms.

“For many of us, our faith has sustained us.” says Kimberly Coleman of Mom in the City, www.mominthecity.com, in response to the importance of religion in the African American community.

·Caucasian moms named managing the desires of their children for material things as a challenge (45%), while African American moms are battling with affordable housing (35%).

·While online, African American mothers are more likely to read articles (68%) and experience music (45%). Caucasian mothers are likely to frequent social networks (45%) and message boards (43%).

“The results of BSM’s research confirm one very important fact - we may share a common bond as mothers, but each of us brings a unique approach to motherhood that must be recognized,” says Michele Dortch of The Integrated Mother.

Wednesday, January 21, 2009

Tuesday, January 20, 2009

I did not think a day like today would happen in my lifetime. I never thought I'd be talking to my child about what a historic day this is and why it is significant and meaningful. I'm still so in awe that I have no words.

Thursday, January 15, 2009

Have you ever been in a situation that reminded you of someone you know, at a totally inappropriate moment? That happened to me today when I thought about Bejewell.

I went for an ultrasound this morning (no, not that kind!). When I got into the exam room, the tech told me my doctor ordered two different scans, one abdominal and one v@ginal. Yippee! If you've never had an internal ultrasound, the wand is like a vibrat@r for newbies only not nearly as fun.

So, after the outside ultrasound, I had to use the loo so as not to pee on the table for the internal exam. I got undressed, stretched out, and the tech smeared me up. (Side note: sincere thanks to whomever designed the gel warmer thingy.) Despite being female and having the same ladyparts, she couldn't find the, um, entrance and I had to insert the wand myself. Yeah, I know!

I'm staring at the ceiling while the tech is moving the wand around. Left, right, up and down like a vajajay joystick. Despite having an empty bladder, my discomfort is growing and I'm sure my uterus and ovaries were all, "the hell?" And the more the tech stirs my innards the more pressure I feel until I'm scared I might toot. Which made me think of the "musical fruit" song from when we were kids, and that made me think of Beej.

Which? Totally made me want to laugh. But I couldn't because I was worried the muscle contractions would force the joystick out AND make me toot. So I had to try and hold in my laughter and gas at the same time which, let me tell you, was not easy.

Now that I have embarrassed myself and potentially lost a friend, it's your turn! Where have you been that made you think of someone even though the circumstances had zero to do with the person?

First, let me say I am not sharing this to scare anyone or sensationalize. I'd never heard of "expiration dates" for tires and I'm guessing many of you have not either. A good friend forwarded the video from ABC News to me this morning. It's long, but the information is very important and could literally be life saving.

After watching, I immediately checked my tires. I bought two new tires last Monday from Discount Tire. Their DOT numbers are 4508 and 4608.

The new tires are on the rear of the car, and the old rear tires are now on the front of the car. The front tire numbers are both 0607.

I will have Drama Dad help me check the spare when he gets home.I called Discount Tire and Matt (I think) was so helpful. He knew right away when I said that I had a question "about the numbers in the oval on my tires" what I was referring to and he confirmed the information in the video.

It's frustrating that as consumers we're responsible for seeking out and sharing this type of information. It blows my mind that a few hours ago I was completely unaware that I could unknowingly buy tires that, despite looking brand new, are a hazard and could potentially put my family and others at risk.

It is sad, shameful and maddening that any company would sell a tire known to be out of safe driving range. Please take a moment to check your tires and remember this information before buying your next set.

Monday, January 12, 2009

I had no idea there was such a thing as National Delurking Day but apparently there is, complete with its own logo.To all you secret repeat visitors: come on out! I'd love to get to know you. And if I haven't been by your blog please let me know so I can return the favor.

Thursday, January 8, 2009

I've been doing the stay at home mom thing for a little over a year now. Which means I've had a year to become organized, with an easy to manage schedule and routine. A year to figure out how to manage my time and find a balance between running a home, being a wife and mom, growing this blog, nurturing my friendships, and keep up with my book club and blogging group. A year should be plenty of time get my act together and have everything under control, right?

I'll give you a moment to find a tissue for the tears of laughter.

All set?

Anyway, yesterday I had two doctor appointments in the morning then went on errands, keeping an eye on the clock so I could make it school in time for pick up at 3:10. All day, that time was in the back of my mind, playing over and over like a CD on repeat, "must finish in time for pick up, must finish in time for pick up." We took Drama Kid out of the after school care program so I'm not used to needing to be at school right at the bell on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, thus the mental reminder.

After the second doctor appointment I went to WalMart. Time check: 12:45. Totally on schedule. Then I went to the commissary which is on the marine base in Oceanside. Time check: 1:30. I forgot my list, which always makes shopping take longer but we didn't need a whole lot. Pushing it but doable.

I made my way through the store and by the time I got to the frozen foods I could tell I was running late. Time check: 2:39. Crap! If I really hurry, he'll only be waiting outside for a few minutes.

I knew I was forgetting something but I got in line and was starting to put the groceries on the belt when my cell rang. I wasn't going to answer since I was in a hurry but, as a mom, there's always that moment of "what if it has to do with the kid?" so I looked at the caller ID and sure enough it was the school.

"Hi Mel, this is A from the front office?"

"Yes, hello."

"Well, I'm sure it just slipped your mind, but Wednesday is early pick up day for teacher conferencing. We have Drama Kid here in the office." Double crap!

"I'm so sorry! I did forget, he usually goes to the after program. I'll leave the store right now."

The school only calls when a parent is more than half an hour late. On early day, classes get out at 2:10. Triple crap!

I started helping the bagger and at first he waved me off but when I him my son's school just called he kicked it into high gear and helped me load everything into my car.

The whole way to school I kept thinking, "I can't believe I forgot my child," and that replaced the "must finish in time for pick up" mantra on the loop in my head.

I forgot my child! I'm a stay at home mom. It's not like I was in a meeting or on a deadline. I was comparing prices and digging through my coupons. How could I forget my kid?!

And I know, I didn't really forget him, but it certainly felt that way. Especially when I went into the office and he was sitting on the floor, all alone next to his backpack.

I apologized profusely to the office staff and they were understanding because they remembered he was normally supposed to be at the after program, but I still felt like they ready to call CPS and report me for neglect.

And I apologized to Drama Kid once we were in the car and he said, "that's OK, Mom" and dug into his snack. He was safe and had obviously moved on with his life but I felt horrible and guilty all night.

I don't know why being at home is still so hard. I've had a year to get it right. It's one thing to forget a dentist appointment but not your kid. *sigh* Hopefully it won't take me another year to get it together.

How about you? Have you left you child somewhere? Was the transition from "working*" mom to at home mom hard for you and how did you handle it?

*I put working in quotes because we all work no matter if our office is a cubicle or a mini van!

Monday, January 5, 2009

Maria and her team at BSM Media (Mom Select) are putting together data for 2009 about moms and what's important to us this year. Three moms will be randomly chosen for a Target gift card. Thanks for your help!

Friday, January 2, 2009

*I couldn't stop tweaking this post and trying to get it to make sense so I missed the opportunity to submit for The Queen of Spain's BlogHer giveaway and I'm kicking myself but I'm posting anyway because it was hard to write and shows where my head is right now *I can't believe the holidays are over. Did they fly by or is it just me? I enjoyed my time off and it's hard to adjust to being back online. I will admit it was nice not feeling pressure to come up with something, anything, to write about every day.

I did some soul searching over the holidays. I thought about the direction I want this blog to go and at times that lead me to adding a review page and others towards shutting the whole thing down which is where I am right now (but only a little). But I missed you guys and the relationships I've made and couldn't just walk away.

One thing I did come to realize, is that if I'm going to continue, I need help. Asking for help isn't something I do well. Just typing that out was hard! I tend to go it alone, reading and researching and often end up frustrated when things don't work out the way I hoped.

I need to step out of my comfort zone and make more connections within the blogging community. I need to stop being afraid to ask questions of the "pros". I need to continue doing my research but try to narrow the focus instead clicking all over the web. I need to find a mentor. I need to think more positively about this space and get rid of the "little fish" attitude I have and toot my own horn once in awhile. Basically, I need to go to BlogHer.

The more I read about this year's conference, the more I'm convinced it's exactly what I need. I've heard so many good things about what going to the conference has done for some bloggers and how helpful the BlogHer team is. I made a Blog To Do list and now have so many things I want to do with this space I'm not sure where to begin:

Have the blog re-designed

Learn more HTML

Learn Photoshop

Better branding

The list is actually pages long and it's overwhelming and possibly even holding me back because I have yet to cross off anything major. I'm frustrated because there's no forward progress. In my mind, attending the conference has become some sort of lifeline. I may be elevating this year's conference to mythical hobbit-like proportions (sorry, that was lame!) but the fact that it's in my home town of Chicago and that there are so many topics on the agenda, like the session on finding balance, that appeal to me makes me believe I really, really need to be there this year.

There are so many reasons I want to go: I want to network and meet other bloggers. I want to ask questions. I want to learn what I can and should be doing better. I'd love to meet the authors of some of my favorite blogs (like my girl-crush Mr. Lady). It would be great to see Casey again. I want to eat true deep dish pizza and walk The Miracle Mile. I'm not sure how I'll get there, or if I even will because of the financials, but I'm determined to try. Am I crazy for wanting to go so badly? Is anyone else totally obsessed?

Erin at The Queen of Spain is giving away a registration package to BlogHer and when I read that I was so excited and took it as a sign that I should submit a post. Erin asked for our reasons for wanting to go to BlogHer and what we'll do to support other women in the coming year. I've been composing this post in my head for days but since my main reason for wanting to go has almost no logic to it I changed my mind.

But then I changed it back again. No matter how much I feel the need to be at BlogHer, I can't make it there on my own. This getting laid off thing has been an adjustment for us. We're doing fine in that we're able to pay the mortgage, bills etc., but any "extras", especially something as big as this just isn't in the financial picture. Plus, it's hard for me to convince hubby to spend money on my "hobby." So, I'm back to asking for help, and asking for money no less which even harder for me than asking for help.

As for how I'm planning on paying it forward, I wasn't going to say anything this early but I think my way of giving back and supporting women is a pretty good one and is something I feel very passionate about. I signed up to do my first 3-day breast cancer walk! I'm excited, nervous and scared but after all the years cheering on the sidelines and volunteering this past November and it being such an amazing experience, I'm ready to see what those three days are like from streets.

*This is as far as I'd written when the deadline hit. I'm so mad at myself I could spit, whatever that means. I haven't given up on going to BlogHer, I will just have to work smarter not harder at coming up with a plan*

Thursday, January 1, 2009

I love to talk on the phone, but realize not everyone does. Email is my second choice. If you need to touch base with me here's how:Email: ADramaticMommy [at] gmail [dot] comTwitter: @MelanieMediaMy LinkedIn profile: http://www.linkedin.com/in/melaniesheridanPhone: 760-933-8824

Welcome!

Let's Get Social

About Melanie

Melanie Sheridan is a Southern California lifestyle blogger writing about her life as a stay at home mom turned work at home mom. She married her high school sweetheart 16 years ago and they share one amazing kid. She is an avid reader, shoe slut, Twitter addict, chocolate fiend, newbie photographer, closet gadget girl, wannabe foodie, late iAdopter, recovering shopaholic and a Pinning Fool. Melanie is very active in San Diego's social media community and freelances with small business owners.